waseHessequa

The Hessequa Municipality is offering nine temporary positions for substance abuse mentor advisors, sometimes referred to as peer recovery mentors, to work within the Hessequa municipal area. These are fixed-term roles intended to support people affected by substance use and to promote recovery through peer-based guidance and community engagement. The positions are suited to individuals who have personal knowledge or understanding of substance use and recovery, and who can use that experience to help others. The contract runs from late September 2026 to the end of February 2027, and the work is paid on a daily basis. Mentors should expect to be deployed anywhere within the municipal area, which includes towns such as Riversdale, Still Bay, Albertinia, Heidelberg, Slangrivier, Witsand, Gouritsmond and surrounding areas. Applicants who already live within the Hessequa municipal area will be given preference.

To be considered, candidates must have at least Grade 10 with the ability to read and write. They must also have a background in or knowledge of substance use and recovery, and must have completed the Peer Recovery Support Curriculum. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as is the ability to communicate in at least two of the official languages of the Western Cape. While one year of experience in a similar field is not compulsory, it will serve as a desirable recommendation. The role requires mentors to take part in training sessions, refer participants to appropriate support services, facilitate group discussions and peer support meetings, provide one-on-one peer leadership to participants, monitor progress and report regularly to supervisors. These duties are central to helping individuals stay engaged in recovery and access the help they need.

The municipality is an equal opportunity employer and encourages people with disabilities and those from previously disadvantaged groups to apply. It follows the Employment Equity Act, and while preference will be given to applicants who meet employment equity targets, this will not be the only consideration. All applications will be subject to reference checks, verification of qualifications and criminal record screening, and submitting an application means the applicant consents to these checks. Applications received after the closing date, or without the required application form, will not be considered. Canvassing any councillor, committee member or municipal official will result in disqualification. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and applicants who do not hear back within three months of the closing date may assume their application was unsuccessful. Successful candidates will be required to sign an employment contract, receive an explanation of benefits and allowances, and sign a performance agreement. Late arrival for an interview will also disqualify a candidate. The municipality respects the Protection of Personal Information Act, and applicants must ensure the information they provide is true, accurate and current. The municipality reserves the right not to make an appointment.